Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) – August 16, 2024: The 13th State and National Leadership Conference (SNLC) concluded on the evening of August 16, 2024, with a significant closing and signing ceremony at Mangrove Bay, Pohnpei. In a momentous display of unity and shared vision, President Wesley W. Simina, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph of Pohnpei, Governor Alexander Narruhn of Chuuk, Governor Tulensa Palik of Kosrae, and Governor Charles Chieng of Yap signed the SNLC Joint Communique, a comprehensive Fisheries Policy, and four pivotal resolutions.
The SNLC Joint Communique and the Fisheries Policy, along with the four resolutions, represent a collective commitment by the national and state leaders to address pressing issues facing the Federated States of Micronesia. These documents, now signed, will be made available to the public, marking a new chapter of collaboration and action.
The four resolutions adopted during the conference are as follows:
Resolution on Compact Funding Allocation: Expressing support for increased allocation of Compact funding, through the Annual Implementation Plan (AIP), towards establishing a nationwide program to address critical environmental and climate change-related challenges during the first five (5) years of the Compact period.
Resolution on Decentralization of Infrastructure Compact Implementation: Expressing support for a bill to amend Title 55 of the FSM Code to decentralize the implementation of infrastructure projects under the Compact.
Resolution on National Petroleum Corporation and State Utilities: Expressing appreciation for the role of the National Petroleum Corporation and State Utilities while calling for a review and increased transparency in fuel prices and utility tariffs.
Resolution on Extension of Compact Sector Grants Deadline: Expressing the endorsement by Leaders to seek JEMCO’s approval for an extension of the deadline for the obligation of FY2024 Compact Sector Grants.
In his closing remarks, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and participants of the 13th SNLC. He commended the leaders and participants for their dedication and noted, “For the past week, we have sat and discussed important issues; now is the time to simply go forth and do it.”
The resolutions and agreements signed at this conference are expected to pave the way for significant advancements in environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, and economic transparency across the Federated States of Micronesia.